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Chapter 14: Déjà Vu
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2023-08-18 14:10:08Related chapters
The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 15: A Coward in Disguise
The strong stench of shame clung to me as I stumbled back home. I couldn't believe what I had done. Leah Garcia never ran from anybody, ever. So, what was that? I had become someone I didn't recognize. Making deals with the devil, kissing clients, running away shamelessly? I might as well dye my hair green and get a face tattoo."Marcy," I called as I entered the apartment, desperately hoping she was home. I barged into her room, and found her sitting on her bed, going through some files.She looked up at me briefly, obviously finding what she was reading more interesting. "Hi, tiger, how was work today?"I groaned loudly and plopped down on her bed. "It was tragic.""You need to talk, don't you?"Nodding, I said, "I barely got through the rest of the day without you."She took off her glasses and pushed the files aside. "What's going on?""I kissed Declan again.""What?"I flinched at the shock in her voice, but quickly filled her in on how the 'professional' interview ended
Last Updated : 2023-08-18The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 16: Kisses and Champagne
I woke up the next day with a familiar feeling of dread in the pit of my stomach. As hard as I tried to dismiss it, it didn't go away. It stayed with me for most of the day, especially when I arrived at the office.My heart almost beat out of my chest every time I saw Miranda, and I jumped anytime someone said my name, scaring off Tracy and Kevin in the process. Unfortunately, my anxiety wasn't enough to scare off Miranda and Mike.Going out with Declan was a tricky situation. He wanted to pick me up from the office, and I didn't want Miranda or anyone else to see him. So, I asked him to pick me up a few blocks away from the office.I stared at the clock impatiently, eager to be on my way. Declan would be here in an hour and my nerves were getting the best of me. My mind traveled to last night, reminding me of how I'd initiated the kiss. I didn't quite understand what it was about Declan that was just so alluring.He was the only man that made it impossible for me to resist him. Th
Last Updated : 2023-08-18The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 17: Not Tonight
We talked about our families for most of the evening. He grew up in New York, and had a magical childhood filled with love and lots of adventures. It was similar to mine except the adventures part. They moved to LA when he was twelve, so his father could be close to work. He talked about his brother who was a doctor, now based in London.I told him about my parents. Being an only child, there wasn't much to share. It had always been just me and my parents. I didn't travel to fancy places, or have vacations in different countries each year. I spoke a bit about what my parents did: my dad was a banker, while my mom was a florist. The house always smelled like roses, and that was a memory I was particularly fond of.He listened attentively, asking me questions. Declan seemed to be genuinely interested in me, because he asked specific questions about my childhood."Are you happy?" he asked, suddenly.I was taken aback by his question. "You mean right now?""No. Generally, with life. A
Last Updated : 2023-08-18The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 18: Double Agent
Declan Samuelson had a way of bringing out the best in me. I had been in an exceptional mood since our picnic date two days ago. I even smiled at Miranda when she gave me her signature death stare.He wasn't one to disappear on a girl after a date either. Declan had checked up on me periodically, calling, texting and even sending flowers. I wasn't sure I deserved him.I had temporarily forgotten about the story, but I had to be in Miranda's office soon for a full report, and I didn't have anything to give her.I got a sense of déjà vu every time I walked into Miranda's office, because it always went the same way. I'd sit down with a scowl on my face, give a report she didn't want, she'd yell at me and I'd leave with an even bigger scowl.Let's get this over with, I thought as I made my way to Miranda's office."Miranda?" Tracy mouthed when I passed her desk.I nodded, and she offered me a sympathetic smile.As always, Miranda had her eyes on her computer. So, I took a seat and w
Last Updated : 2023-08-18The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 19: A Reasonable Favor
*Declan*The last couple of months have been rough. Several hours a day were spent strategizing and drawing up plans for the company, but we're almost done; the official launch is on Saturday.I stood by the window in my office on the top floor of Samuelson Inc, overlooking the sprawling metropolis underneath. This view reminded me of the longest conversation I'd had with my father.It was his office before mine, and even with all the upgrades I had made, it still felt like all I had to do was turn around and I'd find him sitting in his brown leather arm chair, scrutinizing me with those all-knowing eyes."You see all this," he said to me, barely 12-year- old, pointing out the window. "This is the power of innovation and grit. You have to constantly prove yourself or you become yesterday's trash. I do my bit, and it may be your turn to hold the mantle sometime soon."Well, Saturday will be my debut.I glanced at my watch. It was still early in the morning. I shook my head and foc
Last Updated : 2023-08-18The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 20: The Launch
*Declan*The night of the launch had finally arrived, and I couldn't say I was excited to share my designs with the world. The only thing I could look forward to was holding the beautiful Leah by my side tonight, but it seemed I would be waiting still. It was 5:28 pm and my date was nowhere to be found. Typical that Leah would be fashionably late. I guess nothing is more uninteresting than getting here early.I smiled at the thought. Here I was, wearing my finest tuxedo, waiting for this girl to arrive so I could walk into my own opening. All this and somehow, I wasn't mad. Rather, I was looking forward to seeing just how she planned to steal the show tonight.Crazy, I know, but that's just what seemed to happen around Leah Garcia.I did offer to pick her up, but she unceremoniously declined. Something about keeping things professional, since her boss would be here tonight. Little did she know that I had no intentions of keeping things professional.As I was lost in thought, I h
Last Updated : 2023-08-18The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 21: The Ex and the Next
*Leah*Cassandra?Who the h*ll is Cassandra?I stared at the red headed beauty who looked at Declan like he had the cure to cancer. She took a seat beside him, completely ignoring my presence, and placed a perfectly manicured hand on his arm. Declan turned away from me for the first time all night and faced the woman.I couldn't see his facial expression, but I bet he was surprised. Why would he be surprised though? Wasn't he in charge of the guest list?"Did you miss me?" she asked, her pupils stained with pure lust.Who was this woman, and why was no one giving me an explanation? Just then, the lights in the room shone on him, gathering our attention."And now let's welcome Declan Samuelson to introduce the designs," the MC announced before Declan could respond.He stared at me apologetically, and got up to address his guests.A moment later, she occupied Declan's vacant seat and stretched out a hand towards me. "Hi, I'm Cassandra Jones." She said it and paused for a bit, pr
Last Updated : 2023-08-18The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 22: Frenemies
On Monday morning, I walked into the office feeling as confused as always. I had managed to get more information about Declan's past, but I wasn't sure if I wanted to dig deeper. I was scared of what I would find out and how it would affect him.Add my completely inappropriate feelings for Declan, and you'd have a perfect soap opera. I had skillfully avoided the subject of my feelings for him because I didn't want to label it. I'd rather refer to it as complicated feelings that I would need to deal with soon.If there's anything, Saturday proved that I needed to stay away from him to sort out my emotions. I couldn't even put my feelings aside so I could get the full story from Cassandra. I had acted like a jealous fox and she had gotten defensive.I sighed, staring at my computer… I had nothing."I'm giving my therapist a call if you sigh one more time," Kevin called out from his desk, earning a death stare from Tracy.The exchange shook me from my thoughts, and I smiled weakly at
Last Updated : 2023-08-18
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The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 50: Epilogue
*Leah*A month later...When it comes to living a fulfilling life, there is nothing quite like indulging in something that you truly love. It brings a sense of joy and contentment that is simply unparalleled. However, the true magic lies in being able to enjoy your passion in an environment that is warm, welcoming and accepting. Whether you are with that special someone or flying solo, there is a unique kind of peace that comes with knowing that you are exactly where you are meant to be.You find peace in your surroundings, in the little things, and you find yourself smiling all the time.Yes, there were times when I missed him, so much that it hurt sometimes, but I was okay with that. Distance makes the heart grow fonder after all. Right now, I was exactly where I was meant to be. In a loving and accepting environment, doing something that brought me pure joy. And that is what life is all about.Of course, getting to this point can be a long and winding journey, full of twists an
The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 49: Worth it
As we laid in bed, tangled up in each other, I knew that we had finally found our way back to each other. Our past mistakes and misunderstandings were behind us, and were ready to give us another chance.He held me close, his arms wrapped tightly around me as if he never wanted to let me go. I snuggled closer, my head resting against his chest. I could hear the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, and it brought me comfort.I took a deep breath, taking in the familiar scent of him. It was a mixture of his cologne and his natural musk, and it was a scent I had missed desperately. This was where I was meant to be, in his arms, surrounded by his love.The atmosphere was safe and comfortable, but something kept nagging at me. There were still things we hadn't talked about. I knew it might be difficult for him to discuss, but I needed to hear it.I took a deep breath and looked up at him. "I've been meaning to ask you," I said, hesitantly. "What happened after you left that night?""You mea
The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 48: Secretly Yours
*Leah*I stood outside the grand, imposing black door towering over me like a dark sentinel. My heart raced as I contemplated the impending conversation that would change everything. I was dreading it. I took a deep breath, inhaling the sweet smell of spring blossoms, hoping it would calm down my raging nerves. Steeling myself, I stepped forward, reaching for the metal knocker.I hesitated, wondering if I should turn back. But I knew it was too late now. I had to face him, no matter how hard it was. Summoning all my courage, I grasped the knocker and tapped it against the door.Moments later, I heard the sound of footsteps approaching, and I took a step back, anticipating his appearance. The door swung open, and there he was. Declan Samuelson, standing under the doorframe, dressed in black slacks and a simple sweatshirt. My heart skipped a beat as I met his gaze, unable to read the expression on his face.He said something to me, but my mind was too preoccupied to register it. I n
The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 47: Fate
*Declan*I had successfully stayed away from the club for the past few weeks. I had given up on my search for her, and had left everything up to fate. After all, whatever happens, happens. Tonight however, I needed to loosen up. I was in desperate need of a drink and an entertaining environment.The thumping bass vibrated through my body as I took in the scene around me. I couldn't dare hope that she was among the crowd, but here I was, after countless disappointing nights, still searching the crowd for a glimpse of her. It was a reflex action by now, and I had to stop it.I made my way towards the bar, in desperate need of a drink to calm my nerves. Suddenly, a familiar figure caught my eye. My breath caught in my throat. Could it be her? I abandoned my thirst and followed the figure.Excitement coursed through me as I grabbed her arm to turn her around. "Leah," I breathe out.Green eyes looked up at me, confused. That definitely wasn't Leah. Embarrassed, I let her go, apologiz
The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 46: Reality
*Leah*I stepped out of the glass doors of the sleek, modern company building, and a cool breeze brushed against my face, sending a shiver down my spine. I wrapped my arms around my torso, taking in a deep breath of fresh air, the scent of newly brewed coffee from a nearby café wafting towards me.There was a painful pang in my chest. I had spent a considerable amount of time at another coffee shop with someone special. I wouldn't dwell on that; it was all in the past now.What I should focus on is my new job. After I quit my job at Epic Buzz, I felt lost and aimless, unsure of what direction my life was heading. Miranda had threatened to crush my career with her mere fingers, so I had been scared to apply for anything at all.But now, after a successful meeting with my new boss, I was on my way to becoming a travel blogger. The position offered me flexibility, and there was no reason for me to stab someone I loved in the back.I made my way down the busy city street, my mind alre
The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 45: Meant to Be
*Declan*I sat in my boardroom, surrounded by the buzz of shareholders discussing the latest developments in our company. But my mind was far away, lost in thoughts of her. It had been months since I had seen her, but her presence still lingered in my heart and mind.Their voices flew over my head as I stared at her Instagram page for the millionth time. There was still nothing new on her profile, but it was nice to see her smiling face. I couldn't help but grin at the sight of her beaming, it was infectious. It could light up any room and make anyone's day brighter. It was almost as if there was a permanent spotlight on her. But the memory of the night we parted ways still haunted me.It was hard to walk away from her, seeing the light die in her eyes. But I had to prioritize my company's interests over my personal desires. Unfortunately, that didn't make it any easier.Despite the distance between us, I wondered if I'd ever see her again. If by a small chance, we would bump int
The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 44: Something Amazing
I sat in front of my laptop grimly, mentally preparing myself for the conversation. There was no pressure, but I knew I'd be expected to smile and have a sense of humor. However, I'd lost that part of myself.My life had become gloomy, monotonous. I woke up, hung out with my parents, and helped my mom out at her shop. I avoided all my friends and made a conscious effort to stay off social media. It definitely wasn't easy because all I wanted to do was see his face, even if it was just once. But I had to recognize that in order to heal, to move on, that I needed the space.That was why this was so hard. I hadn't spoken to anyone apart from my parents in months. Social interaction was no longer my thing.I rubbed my arm – a habit I had developed after that night – wondering how to handle this. The screen flickered to life; bright dark eyes met mine with an overly enthusiastic smile."Hi, Tiger."I flinched at the old nickname. I hadn't heard it in months. It brought back memories, s
The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 43: When Love Isn't Enough
*Leah*I watched Declan from where I stood at the back of the hall. The only thing I could focus on was him, and before I knew it, he was walking towards me. In a matter of seconds, Declan was in front of me. His hand slipped into mine and he pulled me along with him. It was a small gesture but it meant the world to me.I followed after him, unable to do anything else. The last time I saw him, he didn't even want to look at me, but now his hand was on mine as he dragged me out of the hall. I didn't dare hope that the little physical contact meant that he had forgiven me. I knew better than that. The story was out and he wanted to give me a piece of his mind. Again. Couldn't say I didn't deserve it."I'm sorry," I said, unable to hold back the words any longer.He didn't respond, but I could feel the tension in his grip. We walked in silence for what felt like an eternity before he finally let go of my hand. The sudden absence of warmth made me shiver.I watched anxiously as he p
The Unraveling of Leah Garcia Chapter 42: The Inauguration
*Declan*"We've contacted Epic Buzz's management, but there's been no response," Janet said as she walked into the dressing room.I turned my back to the mirror, securing my tie, "Did you contact Miranda? Tell her what I told you to?""She didn't pick up," she replied, the frustration evident in her tone."What about our lawyers, what options do we have?" I asked, hoping for a solution."We can sue, but the best option would be to settle this out of the media. They're still trying to get a hold of Miranda."I cursed under my breath, but smiled at Janet, determined to maintain a professional standpoint, "Keep trying. We have to do everything we can to stop this. Have you informed my parents?""Yes, they're both here."I nodded at her, indicating she could leave. I chuckled bitterly the moment she left the dressing room, thinking back to everything that led to this moment. Today was my inauguration. I was supposed to have the woman I loved on my arm, but I couldn't stomach the si
